would affect me and as it would affect Archie."

"Quite so. Now suppose you think how it would affect them?"

"Who?"

"Why, the men."

Lady Mickleham put down her cup of tea. "What a very curious
idea!" she exclaimed.

"Give it time to sink in," said I, helping myself to another
piece of toast. She sat silent for a few moments--presumably to
allow of the permeation I suggested. I finished my tea and leant
back comfortably. Then I said:

"Let me take my own case. Shouldn't I feel rather awkward--?"

"Oh, it's no good taking your case," she interrupted.

"Why not mine as well as another?"

"Because I told him about you long ago."

I was not surprised. But I could not permit Lady Mickleham to
laugh at me in the unconscionable manner in which she proceeded
to laugh. I spread out my hands and observed blandly:

"Why not be guided--as to the others, I mean--by your husband's
example?"